Ah, Sicilian Sunday Gravy, a dish that carries the warmth of family gatherings and the richness of tradition. This hearty sauce, simmered to perfection, is a staple in many Italian-American homes, especially on Sundays when families come together to share stories and laughter over a delicious meal. The combination of tender meatballs and savory Italian sausage in a robust tomato sauce makes this dish a true comfort food. Whether you're looking to recreate a cherished family recipe or simply want to fill your home with the enticing aroma of a slow-cooked meal, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table.

This Sicilian Sunday Gravy pairs beautifully with a simple side of garlic bread, perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the dish. For a true Italian feast, consider serving it over a bed of al dente spaghetti or your favorite pasta. A glass of red wine, perhaps a Chianti or a Barbera, would complement the meal wonderfully.

Servings: 6-8 servings

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage, cut into pieces
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 bay leaf

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs.

Add the meatballs to the pot and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside with the sausage.

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.

Return the sausage and meatballs to the pot. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve the gravy over your favorite pasta.

For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes. You can also incorporate other meats like pork ribs or beef short ribs for additional flavor. If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the tomatoes before adding them to the pot. For a vegetarian twist, replace the meat with hearty vegetables like eggplant and mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of meat drippings.

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